In a momentous event marked by celebration and the blessing of rain, His Royal Highness, Dr. Eminence Ambassador Nkosinathi E. Mahlangu, known as King Bongwe II, was installed as the Africa President of the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA).
The ceremony took place at the Royal Palace in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga, drawing esteemed guests from around the globe.
The World President of IAWPA, His Eminence Amb. Per Stafsen, flew in from Denmark to personally oversee this significant occasion, emphasising the global recognition of King Bongwe II’s new role. Distinguished attendees included the Country Director of South Africa, His Eminence Amb. Dr. Anthony Chinedum, Secretary General of the South Africa Chapter, Dr. Thabo Mpyane, and several Eminence Peace Ambassadors from Uganda, Nigeria, and Cameroon. Penny Mkhize, the Minister of International Affairs in the State of the African Diaspora, highlighted the urgent need to address the historical displacement and identity loss among Africans.
Ambassador Paul Amoru, High Commissioner of the Republic of Uganda to the Republic of South Africa congratulates King Bongwe II
Uganda’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Paul Amoru, also attended, pledging unwavering support for King Bongwe II’s efforts to promote peace across the continent. Lexy Mojo Eyes, the President of Africa Celebrates, who recently hosted a successful event in Addis Ababa, traveled from Ethiopia to join the celebrations.
In a show of solidarity and cultural unity, traditional leaders from across the country, including the Khoi San kings, graced the occasion to offer their support. Their presence highlighted the deep-rooted cultural heritage and the importance of traditional leadership in the quest for peace and unity.
Cultural vibrancy was on full display with traditional groups from KwaMhlanga dressed in colourful regalia, captivating the crowd with their performances. The night before the installation, King Bongwe II hosted a gala dinner, filled with joy, food, drinks, and entertainment. Black Queen S Artist kicked off the festivities with her soulful Ndebele lyrics, followed by the Hana Clan Band, whose performance even brought the King and Queen to the dance floor.
As Godfrey Madanhire, Director of Communications in the Africa President’s office, began reading the King’s official installation speech, a light shower of rain fell, symbolising a blessing. King Bongwe II took this moment to promise intervention and support in seeking solutions for the ongoing crisis in Mozambique, drawing inspiration from revered traditional leaders like Chief Albert Luthuli. “We must remember that true peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice, equality, and harmony,” said the King in his speech.
Godfrey Madanhire reading the King’s speech
Advocate Mary Ann Engelbrecht, attending such a culturally significant event for the first time, remarked, “The King is embarking on a huge mission. He needs support from a competent team that is equally passionate about his vision.”
The installation was marked by a brief rainfall and punctuated by lightning, followed by the appearance of a clear rainbow, leaving the audience in awe and underscoring the cultural and spiritual significance of the day.
Additionally, the Queen, the first wife of King Bongwe II, was recognised as an Eminence Peace Ambassador. In her acceptance speech, she expressed her honour and surprise, stating, “This is a huge responsibility which came as a surprise, but I look forward to making a difference throughout the continent.”
The King concluded his speech with a powerful message: “Let us embark on this journey together, united in our vision for a peaceful and prosperous Africa. Together, we will build a legacy of hope, unity, and progress for future generations.”
The installation of King Bongwe II as Africa President of IAWPA was a profound event, blending solemnity, celebration, and a strong commitment to fostering peace and unity across Africa
